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THIS IS WHAT AWAITS IN EUROPE

Towering castles. Untamed natural beauty. Captivating history. Can’t-miss cuisine. This is your time, your moment, your chance to discover Europe.

Destination Must-Sees

Greece Must see takeover

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B. Step into history when you walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium or witness amazing sculptures at the museum.

paris europe mustsees

France’s romantic capital is a must-see destination, and a gorgeous gateway to the wonders the rest of this country has to offer. Whether your ideal Parisian getaway has you spending some free time sipping coffee at a café and watching the bustling city life, roaming the halls of art at the Louvre, or exploring the bohemian artist’s haven — the Montmartre neighborhood, there’s rich history and culture abound in every corner of the City of Light.

Europe ms1

Irish countryside:

Take in the atmosphere of quaint seaside villages, see awe inspiring views of the Lakes of Killarney and explore the picturesque town of Kinsale. Wherever you travel in the countryside, you’ll find that the rolling hills and friendly people you encounter will become a part of your fabric.

Europe ms2

Ancient cities of Italy:

Italy is positively brimming with the world’s most famous Roman ruins like the Colosseum, Pompeii and many other relics from the ancient past. In fact, many cities in Italy still hold evidence of what once was. You can find an aqueduct, city gate, Roman theater or the ruins of an entire city there.

Destination Must-Dos

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Meteora Monastery:

Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.

Palace of Versailles France2022

The Palace of Versailles

The iconic Palace of Versailles (UNESCO) and its gardens reflect the extravagant tastes of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King." Alongside a local guide, learn the history and admire the various rooms of the State Apartments, including the Queen's bedchamber and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Be sure to explore the incredible gardens, some of the most famous in the world, which took over 40 years to complete and include intricate architecture, elaborate fountains, and gorgeous statues.

Europe md2

Drift down a canal:

While canals are found across Europe, nothing beats a romantic gondola ride in Venice. Locals like to say the best way to explore the city is to ‘get lost.’ So take a ride along these waterways, step off and then wind your way through the intricate blend of bridges, narrow streets and grand squares.

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This was the first capital of Spain located about 43 miles south of Madrid. The history of Toledo dates back to the Roman occupation circa 192 B.C. The old city of Toledo sits atop of a small mountain surrounded on three sides by the Tagus River, and medieval walls on the fourth. From the top of the mountain you can get a 180 degree view of the surrounding landscape.

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Magnificent landscapes combined with the country’s charming traditions and customs offer new experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Famous for bullfighting, Spain allows you to grab life by the horns and dive into adventure. Whether it’s the eye-catching architecture of Madrid, the bold Spanish wines, or the shimmering Costa del Sol, this country remains a delight to the senses. Once you experience Spain, you’ll never want to leave and when you do, you’ll always be craving more.

Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

A rendezvous with a magnifique experience awaits! As cliché as it sounds, France truly has something for everyone. With over two dozen cities, each with their own nuances of the French culture and contributions to its history, architecture, art and last but not least, the gastronomical delights that the French are famous for throughout the world are yours to explore, experience and fall in love with during your stay. Coast to coast, border to border, there are seemingly endless variations on your French experience to be had. Rolling hills and scenic valleys lined with the fruit of the gods; seaside towns, along sandy beaches with views you just might be sharing with royalty; or maybe snowcapped mountain ranges providing some of the best skiing in the world and an adrenaline rush to match is what you seek. Whatever you decide, France easily makes you feel as if you have stepped out of reality and into the art you learned about and loved since you were a child.

This European paradise is often referred to as the land of a thousand islands. Located on the east bank of the Adriatic Sea across from Italy, some say that a trip to Croatia is to experience “the Mediterranean as it once was.” It is a natural and historic setting for the many activities and cultural experiences that lie ahead. The art of wellness is practiced along its shores – be sure to indulge in a heavenly spa treatment.

From the coasts of the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Olympus, Greece is a place grand enough for mythical gods and friendly enough for travelers alike. Uncover its ancient ruins and relics and take in an iconic landscape of whitewashed homes. This is only the beginning of the endless wonders you’ll find when you first set foot on Greek soil.

A gem of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is a paradise. On the coasts, sun-soaked beaches meet breathtaking hillside towns all down the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. In the cities, ancient structures rise up shoulder-to-shoulder with modern living. Everywhere you turn, you can find mouth-watering food paired with delicious local wines, medieval architecture paired with Moorish artistic influence, and friendly locals paired with charming attitudes. No matter what you seek, when you go, where you look, or how long you stay, Portugal offers something for every traveler.

At the heart of Europe, monumental contemporary and historic events shape today’s Germany. From the fall of the Berlin Wall to the rise of the Beatles in Hamburg, the culture of the country is marked by its influential past and present. Imagine yourself exploring postcard-worthy castles such as Neuschwanstein or wandering through medieval cities such as Regensburg. From the Bavarian Alps to the Rhine Gorge to the plains of the north, the range of Germany’s landscapes will capture your heart. Perhaps you’ll also indulge your taste buds as you sample the delicious Marzipan sweet treats of the Hanseatic port of Lubeck, which have been produced there for over 200 years. Whether on a journey on the ‘Romantic Road’ or cruising along the Rhine, know that a stein of German beer or a glass of wine from the Rhine vineyards are both a worthy compliment to a destination that offers far more than the average traveler anticipates.

Switzerland

Incredible skiing on the Swiss Alps and delectable Swiss chocolate are only two reasons for visiting Switzerland. Located between Austria, France, Germany and Italy, you can get quite a diverse European cultural experience depending on which region of Switzerland you choose. And though the food, music, art and people themselves are very much influenced by their European neighbors, they are all still uniquely Swiss. You will leave with plenty of memories to savor for a lifetime.

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Europe tour companies range from global operators to local operators specializing in a particular country or region. Tours in Europe are often multi-country, and focus on a range of themes such as food & wine, outdoor activity, and culture. Find  the best  Europe tour operator for your style.

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Europe Reviews & Ratings

Highlights of central europe.

An excellent introduction to the countries visited. The tour leader, Peter, plying and explaining the flute. Very pleasant knowledgeable man, with a good sense of ...

Brilliant ... but

I will deal with the 'but' first. This is definitely not a 1; leisurely; more a 2, moderate. The distances to walk are comparatively large and the surfaces (cobbl...

HIGHLIGHTS OF CENTRAL EUROPE

Highlights of Central Central Europe (June 2011) was a marvelous overview of the cities, villages, and countryside of this culturally and scenically rich region, and...

I was a bit worried about being too long on the bus but the timings were so well organised and during these bleak rainy days of winter I think about how happy I was ...

Highlights of Central Europe

This tour has it all, palaces, castles, stunning cities, incredible scenery and amazing food, wine and beer! You pack a lot in, however it never felt rushed, and it...

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5 Top Tour Operators to Book on Your Next Trip to Europe

Keep the trip-planning process hassle-free with top-rated tour operators across the pond.

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A reputable tour operator can help minimize headaches and maximize value.

Europe offers a treasure trove of museums, archeological sites and historic monuments. But, unless you're an art historian or medieval scholar, in order to fully appreciate these cherished attractions – and make the most of your limited vacation time – you'll want to book day tours with local tour operators. Reserving tours with a reputable tour company can ensure a richer (and more stress-free) experience, especially when traveling with kids in tow. Plus, booking reservations with a trusted guide far in advance can not only ensure availability but can also help you secure discounts and maximize savings. Here's who to go with on your next trip across the pond.

Fat Tire Tours

This English-speaking, British-headquartered tour operator has branches in Paris, Berlin, Barcelona and London, and offers 'skip the line' tours for major tourist attractions as well as unique city tours by bike. Opting for the latter and exploring iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower  and the Tuileries Gardens from behind handlebars holds more appeal for kids than walking and makes for a more memorable and pleasant experience. Apart from benefitting from a knowledgeable guide as you navigate the city by bike, you'll also have the added element of keeping teens and preteens enthralled. Book a Fat Tire Tour online in advance of your trip, as the operator is very popular, but also look for deals offered by the company after your tour. There are often discounts available for booking second tours, and given the variety of offerings in each city, families could easily spend another day exploring with the Fat Tire crew.

Overome  

Focused solely on the Eternal City , Overome is a highly specialized tour company that offers small group and private tours at major Roman sites, such as the Vatican and Colosseum. While Overome primarily covers the can't-miss points of interest across Rome, their greatest strength lies in their tour guides. Their reputable guides are known for their enthusiasm and friendly demeanors, which help make it easy for families to unwind and enjoy in-depth tours of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, without hordes of tourists at their side during prime visiting seasons. In a city known for crushing crowds at tourist attractions, having a guided tour with a small group can easily transform your trip from stressful and hassle-prone to headache-free.

Viator tours are offered in multiple countries across Europe and beyond, making this tour company the most expansive on this list. Travelers booking a tour through Viator can look forward to a range of offerings from daytrips from Paris to Normandy or Mont Saint-Michel to tours of Belgian Christmas markets to walks through Turkish bazaars . How does Viator offer such an extensive list of tours? They act as a middleman, pairing travelers in need of tours with local tour operations in European cities. First, travelers book the tour of their choice through Viator. Then, a subsequent email confirmation lists the local meeting point for the tour and includes information on the local tour company used. While Viator users do have to deal with two companies rather than one, they can count on the process to be streamlined and user-friendly. Best of all, Viator rigorously vets their local operators, so travelers don't have to worry about whether they're in good hands.

Walks of Italy

With tours offered in Venice, Rome, Florence, Pompeii, Tuscany, Milan and the Almalfi Coast, Walks of Italy is a standout pick for specialty tours across Italy. The company is known to tap visitors into the local culture with treks to off-the-beaten-path sites and hidden gems across the country. In other words, after you've seen the major landmarks, or think you know all there is to know about an Italian destination, take a Walks of Italy tour to discover lesser-known places. Their Rome as a Local Tour takes visitors across the city and into the suburbs to hit all the attractions guidebooks tend to gloss over, from chariot tracks on the Appian Way to aqueducts to the secret keyhole to St. Peter's Basilica. As your Walks of Italy tour guide takes you to less-trodden local points of interest, you're bound to feel more like an insider than a tourist.

Brit Movie Tours

Offering a fun way to explore London and the United Kingdom, Brit Movie Tours specializes – as you may have guessed – in movie locations for fans of series shown on both the big and small screen. Families will be most interested in their Harry Potter tour, which takes fans across the capital for three hours via motor coach to locations such as Kings Cross station and 12 Grimmauld Place, but there are also tours for fans of Doctor Who, the Beatles, Sherlock and more. Tours range in size, so look closely at tour descriptions. Also, consider private tours if a top priority is exploring top locations without heavy crowds.

Before You Book

All the tour operators on this list specialize in half-day and full-day tours in major European cities and all companies offer both small and large group tour sizes, ranging in price from approximately 30-200 euros per person. When possible, book your reservations in advance and opt for a small group size of 10 or fewer participants for the most value.

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About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

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Europe Tours & Vacations

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Enduring, eclectic, endlessly appealing – Europe is easy to explore and impossible to forget. 

Trying to decide between hiking through rugged wilderness, touring 13th-century churches and sipping wine in the sun? In Europe you can do it all and do it well. The walkable ruins of Italy will transport you back to a time when the Romans ruled an empire. Sweden’s indulgent national dishes will have your tastebuds begging for more. The natural beauty found in Scotland is guaranteed to ignite the mythical side of your imagination. And that’s only the beginning. From the breezy Mediterranean to the chilly Baltics, our European tours have something for every traveler.

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Whether or not you need a visa to travel to European countries largely depends on the nationality on your passport and whether the country you're traveling to is part of the Schengen Agreement.

This agreement sees 26 European countries offer visa-free travel to nationals from 60 other countries including Australia, the United States, Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom. 

To determine whether the country you're traveling to requires a visa, head to the   Schengen Visa's information website.  

What is the internet access like in Europe?

You can easily access the internet in most countries in Europe, generally in capital cities and other major towns. Internet access may be limited in regional locations such as national parks or remote villages in some countries. 

Can I use my cell phone in Europe?

You shouldn't have a problem using your cell phone while traveling throughout Europe, however, your international data roaming will need to be activated in order to connect to the internet or send messages (unless you connect to the local wi-fi). 

What are the toilets like in Europe?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in the majority of European countries. 

Can I drink the water in Europe?

Tap water in most European countries is considered safe to drink unless it is otherwise marked. 

When should I book a tour in Europe?

There is no 'best time' to travel around Europe as most countries offer plenty to do in every season of the year.

T he most popular time to travel to countries like Greece, Italy, and Croatia is during the summer months (June, July, and August) so you can make the most of each country's respective beaches and warm weather.

C ountries such as Iceland, Norway, and Sweden are known for their snowy landscapes and northern lights sightings during Winter (December, January, and February).

How much does a Europe tour cost?

A tour in Europe can vary depending on the countries you want to visit, the style of tour, and how long you want to go for but you can expect to pay anywhere between USD$1,000 to USD$5,000, with most tours around USD$2,500. 

Is tipping common in Europe?

Tipping isn't as prevalent in Europe as it is in some other countries and definitely isn't expected, but if you like the quality of service you've been given at hotels, restaurants etc then a tip is always appreciated. 

Are credit cards widely accepted in Europe?

While credit cards are accepted in all European countries (especially in capital cities and other larger cities), smaller cafes or local run businesses may not have EFTPOS machines so it's always best to carry around a little cash to cover these expenses. 

What is ATM access like in Europe?

You should have no problem finding ATMs in most European cities. 

What currency will I need on a Europe tour?

The official currency of Europe is the Euro (€), however, only 19 of the 28 countries in the European Union use this. Countries that still use their own currency include Norway, Switzerland, Belarus, Croatia, Denmark, and Sweden. 

Is Europe safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Europe is considered a reasonably safe continent for LGBTQIA+ travelers with plenty of countries openly accepting, welcoming, and embracing the community.

This is evident in large capital cities such as Paris, Berlin, Madrid, and Vienna.

Some countries still hold traditional religious beliefs such as Belarus and Poland so a degree of caution should be taken when travelling around cities and remote regions in those countries.

Will I need a socket adapter for Europe?

If you plan on traveling to multiple countries throughout Europe then purchasing an all-in-one, worldwide adapter is the safest way to go.

I f you don't want to do that, your safest bet is to buy an adapter that uses C or E/F-type plugs as most European countries recognize this. 

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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Europe’s Addictive Walking Holidays are "Meditation in Motion"

Europe’s Addictive Walking Holidays

October 5, 2023 . I stop for a few sips of water, sweat trickling between my shoulder blades. I don’t want to know how red my face is. My husband, Jon, is a few hundred strides ahead of me. He turns and gives me a questioning thumbs up. I wipe my forehead with a sleeve and slowly return the gesture.

It’s in the mid-80s and the sun blazes down from a piercingly blue sky. The trail winds steeply before us, cutting through scrubby, glossy-leaved shrubs, the undergrowth broken by the occasional stand of small oaks.

Behind me, the view of Spain ’s Basque countryside is mesmerizing. The small village we lodged in last night is barely visible across a lush, undulating valley. The gentle clatter of bells drifts through the air, and traces of morning mist cling to treetops in the distance.

We’re five miles into a multiday walking tour of Spanish Basque country, and despite the grandeur of our surroundings, all I can think is, What have I gotten us into?

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A Writer’s Inspiration

Five years ago, I visited the mysterious caves of the jaw-dropping Pyrenees monastery of San Juan de la Peña (a two-hour drive from this Basque hilltop). I was on a quest to retrace the steps of my fictional characters in a historical mystery series I set in the area.

A stop on the Camino de Santiago (a network of ancient footpaths which guide spiritual pilgrims to the tomb of St. James in Spain’s Compostela Cathedral), the tenth-century medieval monastery is carved into caves in the base of soaring cliffs; early kings of Aragón are buried in a royal pantheon here.

As I explored the echoing ruins of the once-bustling medieval complex in 2019, I made myself a promise. One day, I’d explore this magnificent region on foot—just as pilgrims along the Camino de Santiago have done for more than a thousand years.

But when I returned home, the discussions I saw on internet Camino forums about how to deal with painful blisters and other challenges of long-distance walking made me wary. As a 50-something traveler, I had no interest in carrying a heavy backpack or sleeping in dorm-style accommodation for weeks on end.

I craved the unique, meditative experience of a multi-day walking adventure. But I didn’t want the tomb of St. James to be my end goal; I wasn’t a spiritual pilgrim. The truth was, I wanted to explore the Pyrenean foothills at my own pace and retrace the steps of my fictional characters in the process. I also wanted lots of rest breaks, fabulous food, and comfortable—maybe even elegant—lodging.

As it turned out, my timing couldn’t have been better. The restrictions of the Covid pandemic ignited a passion for long-distance walking holidays among lots of restless travelers.

By the time I began my search for the perfect walking tour in early 2023, the options seemed nearly limitless…

Whether it’s a trek to Spain’s Compostela through Portugal ’s wild landscapes, a group ramble through the beech and oak forests of the Pyrenees, a leisurely stroll through England’s bucolic Cotswolds region, or a hut-to-hut mountain adventure through the Italian Dolomites, there’s a walking tour for everyone.

Finding The Right Place… at the Right Pace

Erratzu, a peaceful Basque village, nestled in lush valleys and offering a taste of rural life.

When researching our trip, I combed through websites like AITO — The Specialist Travel Association , a U.K.-based group of more than a hundred highly-rated travel companies. I also turned to experienced walkers for expert advice.

I ultimately chose a tour called "Basque Pyrenees to San Sebastián: The True Heart of Basque Culture," with On Foot Holidays . This was a self-guided 5-night, 4-day itinerary that dips into traditional Camino routes, but mostly follows classic Pyrenees trails such as the GR10, which traverses the mountain chain from east to west.

On our adventure, we’d meet a driver at Biarritz airport in Southwestern France, then travel about an hour to our first accommodation, a bed-and-breakfast in a traditional Basque homestead in the tiny village of Erratzu.

Armed with topographic maps, detailed route notes, and GPS apps, we would walk between nine and 16 miles each day through the oak-studded hills of Basque country to the sea—but ‘shortening options’ offered the flexibility to cut that mileage significantly.

Meanwhile, drivers would transport our luggage from place to place so we’d carry only light daypacks, and an on-call ‘fixer’ named Aznar would help us sort out any challenges along the way.

In a moment, I’ll share the happy ending of this four-day walking tour through Spain’s Basque hills—a challenging and soul-satisfying experience that culminated at the gorgeous seaside food mecca of San Sebastián. And I’ll offer practical tips for choosing a walking holiday and avoiding common challenges, like blisters and overpacking.

But first, you’ll hear from seasoned walkers about their own experiences on the Camino and beyond, savoring some of Europe’s most beautiful regions one step at a time…

The Inside Scoop: Walkers Share Their Favorite European Tours

Milestone along the Camino de Santiago, marking the path for walkers through the forest.

Every seasoned walker I talked to had tips to share about favorite routes, top-notch tour operators, and lessons learned along the trail. One thing they all agreed on: The best times for walking holidays are spring and fall, when weather is typically milder and trails less crowded. This particularly applies to the routes of the Camino de Santiago, which can get very busy and hot in summer.

Going Solo: The "Clarity" Pilgrimage

Canterbury Cathedral in Kent, a stunning UNESCO site and iconic center of English Christian history.

"I started doing pilgrimages during the pandemic because I needed clarity and structure when everything else in my life felt chaotic and uncertain," says USA-Today bestselling thriller author J.F. Penn, a British veteran of three solo pilgrimage walks. "The regular rhythm of wake, walk, eat, sleep became a meditation in motion."

J.F. chose the 90-mile Canterbury Way from London to Canterbury cathedral in Kent as her first solo pilgrimage walk in 2022. Next, she trekked the 62-mile St. Cuthbert’s Way, which begins in Scotland and culminates at Holy Island off the Northumberland Coast of England. For both of the U.K. walks, she booked her own accommodations and used U.K.-based Cicerone guidebooks to plan her routes. She chronicles these walks and a third pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago from Portugal to Compostela in her memoir Pilgrimage: Lessons Learned from Solo Walking Three Ancient Ways .

J.F., who chose tour operator Macs Adventure for her Portugal adventure, is one of several partnered people I’ve met who prefer to walk solo. She finds the Camino offers the right balance of opportunities for alone time and meet-ups with other pilgrims along the trail. A seven-day, 6-night Macs Adventure ‘Camino Portugués Coastal Way: Stage 1’ trip begins in the city of Porto and includes en-suite accommodation in small hotels, all breakfasts, and baggage transfers; starts at $1035 per person. A four-day, five-night Macs Adventure ‘Highlights of the St. Cuthbert’s Way’ walk along English coastal paths includes en-suite accommodation in small hotels and inns, all breakfasts, and baggage transfers; starts at $725 per person.

Oregon-based futurist and investor April Rinne has visited more than a hundred countries and has hiked in places ranging from Patagonia to Mongolia, usually with her husband or small groups. But like J.F., April prefers to walk the Camino alone.

Since 2022, she has completed three solo pilgrimage walks: the Camino Portugues, Camino del Norte, and Camino Fisterra (which means, in Latin, "end of the earth"). "On the Camino Fisterra, the only Camino that begins in Santiago de Compostela, you’re walking away from the end point. The end is the beginning, and you’re seeing anew," she tells me. "The metaphor is profound."

April says when she discovered the women-owned walking tour company Andaspain , "I never looked back. They are fantastic." A six-night, seven-day Andaspain self-guided ‘Last 100 Miles of the Camino’ tour, which includes accommodation in good quality hotels and inns with private bath, all breakfasts, and luggage transfers, starts at $760 per person; the fully guided version of the tour, which adds all dinners and most lunches, plus English-speaking guides and a private tour of Santiago de Compostela cathedral, starts at $3200 per person.

A Legendary Trail Continues to Gain Popularity

San Juan de la Peña is one of many refuges along the vast network of trails that comprise the ancient routes of the Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James. Historically, pilgrims walked these routes in groups for safety, starting their journeys all over Europe and North Africa. Wearing black wool cloaks, matching hats, and distinctive scallop shell necklaces, they came from disparate backgrounds, all with a common goal: to worship at the tomb of St. James (Santiago) in the cathedral of Compostela, Spain.

The longest of the routes, the Via de la Plata, stretches more than 600 miles from Seville in Southern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. The most traveled route is the Camino Frances (or French Way), which crosses from France to Spain over the Pyrenees, then meanders through the rolling hills and vast plains of Spain’s Navarra region.

This long-standing tradition has not only endured over the centuries—it has steadily gained popularity. According to Compostela’s Pilgrim Office (which tracks statistics about pilgrims), in 2013 about 150,000 people completed the Camino; in 2023 nearly 450,000 people did. Most are Spanish, but Americans now make up the largest subset of foreigners.

An Opportunity to Reconnect

Kumano Kodo, an ancient pilgrimage route in Japan, winding through serene forests and sacred sites.

Some people see walking holidays as an opportunity to bring family and friends together. Take Brian Vierra, the Venture Catalyst Director of an economic development NGO in central Oregon. Since 2018, he and his now 83-year-old father, plus various other relatives, have completed six trips all around the world. Two were on the Camino in Portugal and Spain, while the rest spanned the globe: Japan’s Kumano Kodo, Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands, and Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Way among them.

"We took our first trip primarily because it was on my dad’s bucket list and he needed someone to do it with him," Brian tells me. "We did the section of the Camino from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, walking about 150 miles over two weeks. The first group was three of us, and has since grown to six—we are very much ‘the more the merrier.’"

Rather than use a tour operator, the group hires a driver to transfer luggage, and Brian chooses unique, higher-end accommodations himself, including castles and renovated manor homes.

Of all the walking trips he’s taken, Brian says Spain stands out. "The quality of the food and accommodation is amazing, the style of walking suits us, and the Camino doesn’t need to be customized or improvised too much. People do tend to wander off in their own directions—it’s kind of every man for himself some days."

"Make sure you understand the profile of the day’s walk," he advises. "Elevation gains or rough paths can be challenging, and with my dad I need to map out transfers or diversions to make it easier. Also, bring a good first aid kit."

Reconnecting after a long day’s walking—while enjoying Spanish cuisine and fine local wines—is one of the great joys of these trips for Brian and his family.

Blending a Walking Tour With Other Travel

For some, a walking tour will consume their entire European vacation. For others, integrating the walk with other travel is preferable or necessary. Take John Kennedy and Dawn Bolgioni, a couple whose first taste of long-distance walking was during a late-1990s ramble along the 100-mile Cotswolds Way in England—long before kids, a mortgage, and the daily realities of running a wine shop in Portland, Oregon.

Through the years, they dreamed of taking another walking holiday. The couple made it happen nearly two decades later by combining a Spanish-immersion homestay in San Sebastián for the kids with a four-day grownups-only stint on the Camino through the heart of Navarra’s Rioja wine region.

After dropping off the kids, the couple took a one-hour bus journey to Pamplona, then walked the Camino to Logroño, the capital of the Rioja wine region. Once in Logroño, they rented a car and explored the region, tasting wine along the way.

"It was the lure of Rioja that helped us pick our route," John tells me. "The walk was challenging because of the summertime heat, but it was also restorative. Long-distance walking strips all the daily noise out of your world for a while. You don’t have to accomplish anything besides getting to your next destination. It’s a great reset."

Hut-to-Hut Hiking: A Challenge for Fitness Buffs

Golden sunset over Alpine meadows in the Italian Dolomites.

Pilgrimage routes are not the only European walking experiences out there, of course.

Take Lynn Raube and Jeff Behnke, a Pacific Northwest couple nearing retirement who loved two recent hut-to-hut treks through high-altitude, challenging terrain in the Italian Dolomites (one self-guided; one with the tour company Backroads ). Their next hut-to-hut self-guided trip is planned for the Haute Route of the Alps, from Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland.

"With hut-to-hut trips, at the end of the day you have a bed and meals waiting for you in the next accommodation," Lynn tells me. "I love the sense of accomplishment and adventure we get from completing the journey."

Confirmed fitness buffs, the couple relish the challenge of high-altitude trekking and rely on hiking poles (collapsible, lightweight versions fit neatly in checked luggage), quick-drying synthetic fiber clothing, and lots of sunscreen. They savor the opportunity to meet other hikers on the routes and enjoy swapping stories over dinner or along the trail.

Backroads’ six-day, five-night ‘Italian Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Hiking Tour’ includes all breakfasts, five lunches, five dinners, English-speaking guides, baggage transfer, van shuttles as needed, private guided tours at area attractions, gratuities, fares for local transit, and more; starts at $4,100 per person.

Walking Holiday Basics: Costs, Lodging, Difficulty Levels, and More

Our own Basque country tour followed remote trails much of the time, and we rarely encountered other walkers. The tour operators provided us with printed maps and route notes, and we were encouraged to use mapping apps like Pocket Earth (which allows you to download topographic contour maps for offline use out of service range) and compasses if necessary.

All the local Basque farmers and villagers we encountered were friendly, and unlike in our home state of Oregon (where getting lost in the wilderness is a real danger) we were never more than an hour or two from some sort of settlement.

Guided tours eliminate the responsibility of navigating and offer the benefit of local expertise. Participants walk in a group led by an experienced guide and socialize over meals.

Budgets vary depending on location, length of the tour, whether the tour is guided or self-guided, and the types of dining and accommodation on offer. I highly recommend our outfitter, On Foot Holidays , while others (interviewed in this story) recommend Andaspain , Macs Adventure , and Backroads . Some tour operators, such as Road Scholars , also include expert-led lectures and field trips.

Though some tour operators (like Road Scholars) include airfare in their packages, most of the companies I researched do not, and you’ll be expected to get to and from your walking tour starting and ending points. Costs typically include a ‘base rate’ of standard accommodation, some or all meals depending on location, and support from local luggage drivers and ‘fixers’ like our wonderful Basque region advisor Aznar, who quickly responded whenever we reached out. Trips are rated for difficulty level, and many, like ours, offer rides from local hosts to cut mileage or alternative walking routes to circumvent high peaks.

For many trips, you can customize your lodging (which will change the budget considerably) by upgrading from ‘standard’ (usually comfortable, no-frills inn accommodation) to more luxurious options like boutique hotels or renovated castles.

The same goes for food. On our trip, the innkeeper made dinner for us the first night; the second night Aznar reserved a table for us in a local bar; the third night, a three-course meal was included in our accommodation cost at a local hotel/restaurant. The final two nights, we were on our own in the restaurant-studded medieval town of Hondarribia and the foodie paradise of San Sebastián.

The Quiet Magic of Day’s End

Peaceful central courtyard in Hondarribia, Spain, showcasing traditional Basque architecture.

Despite that first blazing hot, sixteen-mile day, our own walking tour had a happy ending. It was dusk when Jon and I finally trudged through the door of Olagaraia , an exquisitely renovated historic guesthouse in the town of Etxalar. After rinsing off the dust of the day in the en-suite shower of our elegantly appointed room, we rested and dressed for dinner in the village square.

The short stroll into town through balmy, grass-scented air felt a bit surreal. For a moment, I wished we had a car. Or a taxi. But the challenges of the day evaporated as we entered Bar Elutsa , a popular gathering spot on the town square, where Aznar had reserved us a table.

Children played in the nearby pelota court (a traditional Basque game), two babies were passed around to admirers in the café, and friends mingled in the streets. Conversations rose and fell around us in both Basque and Spanish. We took in the convivial atmosphere, enjoying chilled local white wine, crisp potato croquettes, fried calamari, and an enormous garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette. We were the only foreigners in the entire town, it seemed, but we felt welcome there.

Walking back to our guesthouse through the quiet night, admiring the canopy of shimmering stars overhead, I felt a sense of accomplishment for having completed the day’s physical challenge, and a tingle of anticipation for what tomorrow would bring.

From that moment on, no matter how steep the trails, how hot the sun, or how exhausted I felt, I was absolutely certain I would complete the journey. The next few days brought glorious views, encounters with adorable semi-feral Basque ponies called Pottoka, one breathless moment when a large snake slithered across the path (a French couple hiking nearby assured us it was harmless), and lodging that ran the gamut from comfortable to palatial. Every evening, we feasted on Atlantic seafood, grilled meats, and local produce.

In the medieval town of Hondarribia, we celebrated our anniversary with a night in the magnificent former castle of Spain’s King Carlos V, Paradores de Hondarribia . We sampled pintxos (the Basque version of tapas) along restaurant-packed San Pedro Kalea street. (At Bar Senra, generously portioned pintxos were $25 for two, wine included.)

In the smaller villages, we ate hearty if simple meals in local bars. Our multicourse menu in the restaurant of the historic Hotel Churrut in Bera offered delicious, classic Basque dishes such as entrecôte of beef with red peppers, baked sea bream with potatoes, and gateau Basque. ($60 for two, wine included.)

And in San Sebastiàn, a gastronomic mecca where we stayed in the simple, comfortable Pension Sarriegi , we went a little crazy with pintxos, eating our way around town one small plate at a time. Our favorite spots: Gandarias (31 de Agosto Kalea, no. 23) and Bar-Restaurante La Cepa (31 de Agosto Kalea, no. 7). ($20-25 for two; wine, cider, or beer included.)

San Sebastiàn is also home to many excellent Gelaterias. After descending the stunning cliffside trail into San Sebastiàn on our last day of walking, we headed straight to Gelateria Boulevard (Alameda del Boulevard, no. 10) for generous scoops of ice cream ($6 for two). The justly famous gateau Basque (locally known as pastel Vasco) at Pasteleria Oiartzun (Ijentea Kalea, no. 2) is not to be missed, either. There’s nothing like starting the day with cafés con leche and pastel Vasco enjoyed at a sunny sidewalk table. ($10 for two coffees and a pastry.)

We’d added an extra day in this lovely, compact seaside city to take advantage of cultural highlights like the fascinating, history-packed San Telmo Museum (and, let’s face it, to eat), and take some time to recharge.

On our last afternoon there, I dipped my toes (blister-free thanks to a light daypack, well-broken-in shoes, and merino wool socks) in the sapphire-blue Atlantic while Jon swam to his heart’s content in San Sebastiàn’s half-moon-shaped bay. We’d walked 53.5 miles in four days, much of it on steep hills, in unseasonably hot fall weather.

Next time, I mused, we could build in a few rest days here and there. We could try the ‘real Camino’— maybe the coastal paths of the Portuguese route. Or keep going from San Sebastiàn all the way along the cliffs to Santiago de Compostela.

A burgeoning sense of confidence made me want to keep traveling this way, experiencing Europe one step at a time rather than from a car window or a seat on a train.

I’m hooked , I realized.

Everyone I interviewed for this story agreed there is something wonderfully addictive about walking tours.

Barely 24 hours after completing our journey, I was already imagining our next walking adventure.

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Excerpt from Gift of Gold

Several scenes in Amy’s novels take place in San Juan de la Peña monastery, a stop on the Camino.

While researching my books, I discovered the San Juan de la Peña monastery was not only an important stop on the Camino de Santiago, but a power player in the local merino wool trade. It was a no-brainer to make San Juan de la Peña the spectacular backdrop to my characters’ dramas, joys, and tragedies.

Here’s a taste:

Ten-year-old Carlo Sacazar followed the monks back to the monastery, trotting to keep up. They entered a stone building with arched windows and soaring ceilings. Simple wooden pallets lined the perimeter of the airy space, most of them occupied by patients covered with rough homespun blankets. It was easy to spot the cause for the monks’ alarm: a man who thrashed wildly on a pallet by the door, his face and neck covered in blood.

Brother Arros entered the building carrying a wooden screen, his face unsmiling, his clear blue eyes sober.

“Bear attack,” he said, arranging the wooden screen next to the pallet. “A pilgrim. He was discovered on the King’s Road by a group of merchants heading south. They were kind enough to transport him here. I’m confident I can staunch the bleeding, and thanks to Maria’s herb recipes I have the right medicines to ease his pain. His skin, though—I don’t know if it can be repaired.” Brother Arros seemed to notice Carlo for the first time. “Young Carlo, this is not the place for you,” he said sternly. “Go find your father.”

Carlo turned and ran as fast as he could to the refectory, where his father was conversing with a group of monks. When Carlo rushed in, he stopped talking in mid-sentence.

“What’s wrong, son?”

“A man was attacked by a bear,” Carlo recounted breathlessly. “A pilgrim.”

Carlo’s father cast a look at the monks, who crossed themselves. “God rest his soul, he will not last the night.”

From Gift of Gold: Miramonde Series Stories , copyright 2019 by Amy Maroney. To download a free e-book of the story collection, click here .

Editor's Note: This article appears in the September 2024 issue of International Living magazine, a monthly publication that showcases the best destinations around the world to live, invest, travel, and retire well… for less. With correspondents based all over the planet, we bring you on-the-ground insights and expert recommendations you won’t find anywhere else--about real estate, health insurance, retirement planning, earning abroad, investing outside the dollar, taxes, visas and second passports, overseas home rentals, and more . Subscribe today with a special offer, here .

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    Find your ideal travel style and vacation destination in our collection of over 300 guided tours and river cruises to Europe and beyond. From great value guided tours to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, every vacation delivers exceptional value, with everything arranged for you, not by you, including trusted hotels, must-see sights and comfortable transportation.

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    Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of The Travel Corporation family of companies. #SimplyTrafalgar. Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH. Book your 2024 European tour with confidence. Free 3 day booking hold and flexible change options. From London to Rome, travel Europe with Trafalgar.

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    From Europe tours to USA trips, travel with confidence with Trafalgar. A small deposit secures your vacation. ... Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of The Travel Corporation family of companies. #SimplyTrafalgar. Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH. Selected Region. United States. Selected Region. United States ...

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    2. Complete Douro Valley Wine Tour with Lunch, Wine Tastings and River Cruise. 5,651. Food & Drink. 6+ hours. The Douro wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has produced wines for thousands of years, including famously flavorful…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 97% of travelers. from.

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